NHRC Concludes National Conference, Advocates for Older Persons’ Rights

On its 31st Foundation Day, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) organized a day-long national conference on the “Rights of Older Persons” at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. During the keynote address, Acting Chairperson Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani emphasized the invaluable role of elders as the architects of the nation’s history, keepers of cultural heritage, and foundational pillars of families. 

Conference Overview

• NHRC’s 31st Foundation Day conference focused on the “Rights of Older Persons.“
• The event aimed to address the growing challenges faced by the elderly population in India.

Acting Chairperson’s Address

• Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani described elders as “the architects of our nation’s history” and emphasized their importance in families and society.
• She called for respect, compassion, and dignity for older persons during their twilight years.

Challenges Faced by Older Persons

• Multi-Faceted Issues : Financial insecurity, healthcare disparities, social isolation, and discrimination significantly impact older persons’ quality of life.
• Legal and Policy Framework : Existing laws and government schemes exist, but their effective implementation remains a challenge.

Immediate Needs Identified

• Access to affordable, quality healthcare services.
• Addressing mental health needs of older persons.
• Adequate pensions and social security benefits.
• Safe and affordable housing options.
• Financial literacy to empower informed financial decisions.

Anti-Discrimination Measures

• Strengthening and enforcing anti-discrimination laws to protect older persons from age-based discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare.
• Implementing measures to prevent and address elder abuse.

Historical Context

• NHRC Secretary General Shri Bharat Lal highlighted India’s tradition of venerating elders, noting contemporary challenges posed by urbanization and nuclear family structures.
• Emphasis on creating a supportive environment to harness the potential of the aging population.

Technical Sessions

The conference featured three technical sessions:

• “Ageing of the Aged”

• “Analyzing the Gendered Face of Ageing”

• “Evaluating the Healthcare Scenario”

Discussions aimed at identifying policy gaps and suggesting the way forward.

Government Commitment

• Union Minister Shri Amit Yadav reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of older persons, indicating potential changes to existing laws.
• Collaboration with experts and stakeholders to address challenges faced by the elderly.

Gender Perspective

• Ms. Andrea M. Wojnar, representing UNFPA India, emphasized the need for a review of the National Policy for Older Persons, focusing on an inter-generational approach.
• Technology was identified as a vital tool to meet the needs of older persons.

Healthcare Focus

• Dr. V. K. Paul from NITI Aayog discussed the impact of healthcare on the well-being of older persons, emphasizing productivity and social security.

Future Recommendations

• NHRC will further consider the various suggestions made during the conference to finalize recommendations for the government to strengthen care and welfare mechanisms for older persons in the country.